So the goal was....

[LouDoo]

I know this is way more than you want to spend but I thought you might want to get some ideas from this:

http://www.jettrax.com/PWC-Lifts.htm

Lou

 

[Pacoson]

Griz I did see that vid, others too. The one that gave me the idea was ultimate seadoo fan on you tube. They wanted to bring their camper and the seadoo.

Lou, yes 2k+ is 5 times what I have into the actual GTX but Ideas from their site I do like.

The floating waist deep is my best bet, I don't think I'd need help as the nose is out of the water, that might be the direction. Either way help will be around.

 

[bigJake]

i'm thinking you will need help because when the ski will won't stayh steady when you try to put the shuttle under it. good luck, let us know how it goes.

 

[Pacoson]

Update

It works, I have successfully used the shuttle 3 times. I am replacing the front axle and adding 3in of height (nose bottomed out on the ground a bit). but all in all it's great.

The floating issue wasn't one at all, the ski is slid on the shuttle backwards and with the V shape of both, you just need to pull on the rope a bit. this part I do by myself.
Aligning the shuttle to the ramps takes a bit of practice, strength or help. then just crank it up and strap it in.

I had a move in my life from a break-up and I've had the ski in the back of my truck for a few weeks now. No problems or safety issues.

 

[Rotor13B]

Just a thought, Instead of using regular wood for the winch you should use composite 2x4s. Definately heavier but stronger as well. That and you could get an electric winch from Harbor freight and wire into your truck nice and neat, No busting your knuckles on the wood.